"foam" fire extinguishers are made for hydrocarbon fires...i.e: gasoline, diesel, etc. These fires are considered class "b" (flammable liquids), and are mostly used by professionals and in commercial and industrial settings. These extinguishers are charged with anther AFFF, FFFP, or AR-AFFF, however, these class of extinguishers are only rated class A & B fires and are hazardous to the environment, humans and animals in addition to being very corrosive.
Foam, dry powder or CO2 gas- a Class B extinguisher
Not normal foam but carbon dioxide foam from a fire extinguisher. This special foam covers the fire and takes all the oxygen out of it, and with no oxygen, no fire!!!
you should use dry powder extinguisher
smother it or use a foam fire extinguisher
Use a foam extinguisher to smother the fire without spreading it.
Using a foam fire extinguisher on a liquid fire can be effective, as foam is designed to smother flames and create a barrier between the fuel and the air. However, it's crucial to ensure that the liquid is compatible with foam extinguishing agents, as some flammable liquids may react adversely. If the foam does not properly cover the fuel, it might spread the fire instead of extinguishing it. Always check the fire classification and use the appropriate extinguisher for the specific type of fire.
A dry powder fire extinguisher is mostly recommended for use in vehicles and in the home. So basically they are usually used for small fire emergencies.
As a sea captain I know this one. Aim your fire extinguisher at the base of the flame. This will cool and choke off air to the fire. If the fire is an electrical fire you should first cut off the exectrical power. Then use the fire extinguisher. If the fire is an oil fire keep in mind that it can reflash. Try to use a foam fire extinguisher to choke off the air.
There are several categories of fire extinguishers. It depends on where the extinguisher is likely to be used and on what type of fire is to be expected. For example: a soda and water extinguisher is commonly used for general type fires. But, due to the risk of being electrocuted, a soda and water extinguisher would be dangerous to use round high voltage electrical equipment - so a carbon dioxide extinguisher would be used instead. On oil fires, a foam extinguisher would be best, as a soda water extinguisher would simply spread the area of the oil fire, and even increase the intensity of the flames, while the foam would smother the flames, cutting off the oxygen to feed the fire.
A Class A, B, C, or ABC fire extinguisher works wonders on several different types of fires. A is good for wood, paper, etc. B is good for liquids. C is good for electrical fires. Do not use a Class D, for these are best on metals (such as magnesium).
Using an incorrect fire extinguisher, such as a foam extinguisher on a fire involving flammable liquids or electrical equipment, can worsen the situation. Foam extinguishers are not suitable for electrical fires, as they can conduct electricity and pose a serious risk of electrocution. Additionally, applying foam to flammable liquid fires might spread the fire instead of extinguishing it, leading to larger flames and increased danger. It's crucial to use the appropriate extinguisher type for the specific fire class to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Most likely a type of foam similar to in a fire extinguisher.